Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
If you’re looking for a show-stopping side dish that’s quick, fuss-free, and destined for family favorite status, Honey Butter Skillet Corn is about to steal your heart (and your taste buds). Imagine golden kernels of corn gently swirled with creamy melted butter, kissed by just enough honey to give a hint of sweetness, then finished off with lush cream cheese for extra richness. This is comfort food at its most irresistible, and it belongs on any table, any night of the week!

Ingredients You’ll Need
Six everyday ingredients are all it takes to create something truly magical. Each item in this Honey Butter Skillet Corn recipe enhances the natural sweetness and creamy finish that sets this corn apart from any other side.
- Frozen corn (3 cups): Gives the dish its sweet snap and crunchy pop—no need to thaw!
- Unsalted butter (1/4 cup): The rich base that melds beautifully with the honey and gives the corn that irresistible buttery finish.
- Honey (3 tablespoons): Delivers a velvety sweetness that balances the savory notes—pure comfort in every spoonful.
- Cream cheese (4 ounces, cubed): Melts down to create the creamy, velvety sauce that makes this skillet corn ultra-luxurious.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brightens and balances the sweet and creamy elements, making all the flavors pop.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Adds a gentle warmth and depth without overpowering; feel free to adjust to taste.
How to Make Honey Butter Skillet Corn
Step 1: Melt the butter and honey
Start by placing a large skillet over medium heat. Add the unsalted butter and honey, stirring them together until the butter has completely melted into the honey, creating a smooth, golden pool. This fragrant foundation is what makes Honey Butter Skillet Corn sing—let it gently bubble, but don’t let it scorch!
Step 2: Add the frozen corn
With your honey-butter base ready, pour in the frozen corn—straight from the bag. No need to thaw! Stir occasionally for 5 to 6 minutes, letting the kernels heat up and take on that lovely glossy sheen. You’ll start to smell the sweetness wafting from the pan, making this step extra tempting.
Step 3: Stir in cream cheese, salt, and pepper
Once the corn is heated through, drop in the cream cheese cubes. Sprinkle in the salt and black pepper. Stir the mixture frequently for another 3 to 4 minutes; you want the cream cheese to melt and coat every kernel, creating that luscious signature sauce that defines Honey Butter Skillet Corn. When it’s perfectly creamy and piping hot, you’re done!
How to Serve Honey Butter Skillet Corn

Garnishes
Add a touch of freshness or flair by sprinkling the finished dish with chopped chives or parsley. A sprinkle of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper introduces a pop of color and a playful kick. The creamy golden corn looks stunning in a rustic bowl alongside your main course.
Side Dishes
Honey Butter Skillet Corn pairs brilliantly with almost anything! It’s a natural companion for grilled meats, barbecue, or roasted chicken. For holiday dinners, it nestles perfectly among mashed potatoes, green beans, and stuffing, bringing out the festive spirit in every bite.
Creative Ways to Present
If you want to shake things up, try serving Honey Butter Skillet Corn in individual ramekins for a dinner party or spoon it onto toasted bread rounds as a creamy, crowd-pleasing appetizer. Leftovers also make a delightful topping for baked potatoes or a vibrant addition to salads.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Honey Butter Skillet Corn keeps beautifully in the refrigerator. Transfer any extras to an airtight container and store for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making it just as tasty the next day—perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.
Freezing
Need to stash some for later? Simply cool the corn completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw in the fridge overnight to preserve that creamy texture.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the corn gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring often to prevent scorching and to restore that velvety sauce. Alternatively, use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, until everything is piping hot and ready to serve.
FAQs
Can I use fresh corn instead of frozen?
Absolutely! If you have fresh corn on hand, simply cut the kernels off the cob and use them in place of the frozen corn. The flavor will be even more vibrant and just as delicious.
What’s the best way to add some heat to the dish?
If you love a sweet-and-spicy vibe, try adding a pinch of cayenne or crushed red pepper flakes along with the salt and pepper. Start small and adjust to your spice preference—the creamy sauce balances heat beautifully.
Can I make Honey Butter Skillet Corn dairy-free?
Definitely. Swap the butter for a plant-based alternative and use dairy-free cream cheese. The end result may taste slightly different but will still be creamy and crave-worthy.
Does Honey Butter Skillet Corn work for potlucks or holidays?
This dish was made for sharing! It’s quick to prepare, travels well, and is always a crowd favorite at gatherings. Serve it directly from the skillet or transfer to a decorative bowl for a festive touch.
What kind of honey works best?
Any mild, good-quality honey will shine in this recipe. Clover honey is a popular choice, but wildflower or orange blossom honeys add unique undertones. Avoid strongly flavored honeys, which can overpower the delicate sweetness of the corn.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve never tried a side dish that manages to be sweet, creamy, and utterly comforting all at once, Honey Butter Skillet Corn is about to become your new obsession. It’s effortless, delicious, and perfect for any occasion. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if this becomes a staple at your family’s table!
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Honey Butter Skillet Corn Recipe
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Indulge in the rich, sweet flavors of this Honey Butter Skillet Corn recipe. Creamy and decadent, this side dish is the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients
Frozen Corn:
- 3 cups
Unsalted Butter:
- 1/4 cup
Honey:
- 3 tablespoons
Cream Cheese:
- 4 ounces, cubed
Salt:
- 1/2 teaspoon
Black Pepper:
- 1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
- Melt Butter and Honey: In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter and honey together, stirring until smooth.
- Add Corn: Add the frozen corn and cook for 5–6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- Stir in Cream Cheese: Stir in the cream cheese, salt, and black pepper. Continue cooking for another 3–4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cream cheese is fully melted and coats the corn.
- Serve: Serve warm.
Notes
- For a spicy-sweet twist, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.
- This dish pairs well with grilled meats or as part of a holiday side spread.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 9g
- Sodium: 230mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 40mg